Ethiopian Airlines has confirmed an order for nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with deliveries scheduled between 2031 and 2033, as the carrier moves to expand its long-haul capacity and strengthen international connectivity.
The airline said the widebody purchase, combined with a previously announced commitment for 11 Boeing 737 MAX jets unveiled at the Dubai Airshow, was finalized in December 2025. Together, the two transactions add 20 Boeing aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines’ order book, reinforcing a fleet strategy centered on newer, fuel-efficient models.
Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said the new Dreamliner order supports the company’s long-term fleet development plans and sustainability ambitions. “We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet,” he said, adding that the airline intends to continue modernizing with newer technologies to support “sustainable aviation.”
Ethiopian currently operates the largest 787 Dreamliner fleet in Africa, deploying 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to major destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as key services within Africa.
Boeing welcomed the announcement, with Anbessie Yitbarek, the planemaker’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, describing the 787 family as a key driver of long-haul growth for airlines globally and saying Boeing looks forward to supporting Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion.
The airline said the latest agreement increases its total number of 787-9 aircraft on order to 20, and noted it also maintains significant firm orders, options, and purchase rights across Boeing programs, including the 737 MAX and 777X families.
Beyond fleet growth, Ethiopian Airlines is also pursuing major infrastructure development, including the Bishoftu International Mega Airport City project, which it described as a cornerstone initiative aimed at scaling capacity and reinforcing its role in African and global aviation.
Source: Ethiopian Airlines
